SIUE Wrestling Adds Three Standouts

EDWARDSVILLE, ILL. – SIUE wrestling Head Coach David Ray continued to add to his 2012-13 roster with the announcement of three standouts.

Ray said John Anderson (Tinley Park), James Accettura (Elmwood Park), and Brynce Vrbenec (Oswego) will join the Cougar lineup next season.

"These three young men are quality individuals in school and in their personal lives," Ray said. 'It is exciting to have them come on board to help the program achieve the goals we envision."

Anderson was a two-time state qualifier and a three-time regional champion at St. Rita High School. He was hampered by an injury his senior season and was unable to compete in the postseason. Anderson, who will likely compete at 125 or 133 pounds for the Cougars, learned of the Cougars through a friendship with former SIUE wrestling All-American Steve Stearns.

"He has the tools, but it is a whole different life in Division I athletics as one must make a commitment for four to five years. I think John understands the sacrifice and is willing to make those adjustments," said Ray. "He is at a weight class where our depth chart is very thin."

Accettura was a 170-pound standout at Elmwood Park High School where he competed in football and wrestling. He was an All-Academic performer in the Metro Suburban Conference. Ray said Accettura started competing in wrestling as a prep freshman, so he may appear to start a little behind most incoming freshmen.

"Jim is a great person. His personality and positive demeanor is second to none," said Ray. "You can see the excitement in his expressions when you speak about wrestling in college. His heart and determination will help him make up a lot of ground.  It is difficult to say where Jim's potential is. He is going to show the most improvement of all the freshmen in the first six months. One thing that I like about Jim is his work ethic. He wants to be the hardest worker in the room. He will push himself as well as his teammates."

Vrbenec was a two-time state qualifier and a Brute National place winner while at high school wrestling power Montini Catholic. Ray said Vrebenec fell off many coaches' recruiting radar after not placing at the state championships, but he will welcome the 141- or 149-pounder to the SIUE wrestling room.

"Drew already knows and understands what it takes to have success. His experience will be most welcomed in the practice room," said Ray. "Drew is a talented athlete who has the potential to achieve great things in college wrestling."